Level 9
$52,000 NZD
52 study weeks
Every first Monday of each month
180 Credits
The Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) combines advanced early childhood education research and pedagogical expertise with practical, hands-on experience. Blending academic excellence with real-world application, this program prepares graduates to excel as leaders in their field.
Approved by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, this centre-based program immerses students in early childhood education environments, offering opportunities for employment alongside study commitments. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for New Zealand teacher registration.
With a strong foundation in research and pedagogy, graduates will be well-prepared to take on leadership roles and contribute significantly to the success of their early childhood centres.
NZTC Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) is approved by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. There are strong strands of research, pedagogical knowledge combined with professional practice at the master’s level. In the centre-based mode of delivery, where the majority of study time is undertaken in an early childhood centre, there are opportunities for employment based on the centre’s needs for staff.
Graduates are eligible to apply for New Zealand Teacher registration and provisional certification. Starting your career as a graduate from the NZTC Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) provides you with opportunities to be a leader in your centre from the outset. With your strong pedagogical and research background, you will make valuable contributions to your centre in senior roles.
All ECE qualified teachers are now included on Immigration New Zealand’s Green List as roles eligible for work to residence with two years of work experience.
Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) students can support a partner work visa.
International students must be at least 18 years old when
commence the course.
ACADEMIC
English language competency
Others
Early childhood teachers usually earn $57K-$100K per year. Graduates from the NZTC Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) earn around $70K in their first year after study.
Source: MOE and Careers.govt.nz 2025
The Master of Teaching and Learning (ECE) features strong professional experience components including 33 weeks attendance at a centre mentored by an Associate Teacher in the centre, and 80 days of practicum throughout the program, where you are supported and assessed on your practice by an NZTC Lecturer and your Associate Teacher. During your professional experience you are exposed to a range of early childhood settings, age groups, teaching approaches and philosophies.
Centre-based learning
Applicable to all study programs operating under the requirements of The Teaching Council, this mode blends the flexibility of online learning with workplace learning and practical experience in an ECE centre or school.
All students access the learning management system (NZTC Online) for course materials, research and support materials, and assessment submission and return, while learning in their workplace.
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NZEA, a New Zealand registered company with offices in Auckland and Mumbai, provides advice on studying in New Zealand. We are defined by ethical practice and ensuring our students make the right choice to pursuing education goals. NZEA is with you all the way… guiding you throughout your academic journey.
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